The Indian Super League (ISL) has long served as a breeding ground for the nation’s footballing talent. From Sandesh Jhingan’s fearless defending to Sahal Abdul Samad’s flair in midfield, the league has consistently spotlighted future stars. The 2024-25 season proved no different as a string of breakout performances underscored its role as a launchpad for India’s next generation of football.
On the club level, Mohun Bagan Super Giant etched their name into the record books by completing a historic League Double, lifting both the ISL Shield and the ISL Cup. Yet, it was FC Goa’s Brison Fernandes who earned the Emerging Player of the Season award. Apart from him, there were many other bright talents. Let us take a look at them.
Brison Fernandes (FC Goa)
At 23, Fernandes took the ISL by storm, netting seven goals and contributing two assists. He became the first local player to score back-to-back braces in ISL history. The young attacker’s presence in the final third powered FC Goa’s campaign. It also earned him a call-up to the national team. Fernandes finished as the second-highest Indian scorer behind the iconic Sunil Chhetri. His rise was a testament to coach Manolo Marquez’s belief in nurturing domestic talent.
Nathan Rodrigues (Mumbai City FC)
Amidst a turbulent season for Mumbai City FC, Nathan Rodrigues—a Reliance Foundation Young Champs product—emerged as a beacon of consistency. His style is a blend of defensive solidity with attacking contributions. Rodgiquez scored three goals and provided an assist this season. He also logged 29 interceptions, 22 tackles, 33 clearances, and 78 duels won while maintaining an impressive 84% pass accuracy. For Mumbai, his poise under pressure was a rare silver lining.
Ramhlunchhunga (Hyderabad FC)
Wearing the No. 10 jersey for Hyderabad FC, Ramhlunchhunga played a key creative role despite a challenging season for his side. The 23-year-old was a constant threat, recording two goals and three assists. His work rate was equally commendable with 28 touches in the opposition box, 25 successful dribbles, 106 duels won, and 107 recoveries. With Hyderabad eyeing a resurgence next year, Ramhlunchhunga is a cornerstone of their attack.
Korou Singh Thingujam (Kerala Blasters FC)
A virtual unknown just a season ago, 18-year-old Korou Singh made his mark with two goals and four assists in 17 appearances. This result is the joint second-most assists by an Indian this season. The teenager played a crucial role in Kerala Blasters’ attacking structure. He enjoyed 19 successful dribbles, created 15 chances, and achieved a 77% pass accuracy. Under new head coach David Catala, Korou’s familiarity with the league will be invaluable.
Buanthanglun Samte (NorthEast United FC)
In NorthEast United FC’s impressive push to the knockouts, Buanthanglun Samte became one of their most influential figures. A dual threat in defense and attack, Samte averaged 23 passes per match. He also registered 26 tackles, 68 duels won, 52 clearances, and 58 recoveries. His three assists were the joint third-most by any Indian player. Under coach Juan Pedro Benali, Samte has solidified his place as a vital cog in the Highlanders’ machine.
Lalrinliana Hnamte (Chennaiyin FC)
Chennaiyin FC’s midfield dynamo Lalrinliana Hnamte enjoyed a breakout season. He also earned a national team call-up. Hnamte is known for his relentless defensive efforts. He made 53 successful tackles, which is the second-most in the league. Hnamte also produced 26 interceptions, 30 clearances, and 105 successful duels. At just 21, he has become essential to Chennaiyin’s rebuilding plans.
Tekcham Abhishek Singh (Punjab FC)
In his second ISL season, Tekcham Abhishek Singh evolved into one of Punjab FC’s defensive pillars. He ranked third in the league for interceptions (47). Also, he backed that up with 70 recoveries, 23 clearances, 17 tackles, and seven aerial duels won. His partnership with Nikhil Prabhu, who led the league in interceptions, proved crucial in Punjab’s respectable showing.
Dippendu Biswas (Mohun Bagan Super Giant)
In a team filled with stars, 21-year-old Dippendu Biswas held his own, making 14 appearances and contributing a goal and two assists. His 14 interceptions, 14 successful tackles, 42 duels won, and 39 recoveries highlighted his all-round contribution. His efforts earned him the Emerging Player of the Month title in February 2025.
Vinith Venkatesh (Bengaluru FC)
Bengaluru FC’s midfield welcomed a new talent in Vinith Venkatesh, who played 602 minutes across 19 matches, notching a goal and two assists. With 191 completed passes at 80% accuracy and solid defensive stats—including 18 recoveries and 43 duels won—Vinith’s debut campaign showed maturity and promise.
As the ISL continues to evolve, the 2024-25 season reaffirmed its role as the premier platform for nurturing homegrown talent. With a new generation of players emerging, the future of Indian football looks bright, vibrant, and poised to scale new heights.
